10/06/2026
Without further ado, we’d like to introduce our esteemed moderator and jurors for the 2026 Design Excellence Awards! 💫 With a strong background of experience and knowledge, these folks will bring a rich and diverse perspective to our panel and we cannot wait to hear their thoughts! Swipe to meet them! 🙌🏼
If you haven’t already, be sure to snag your tickets at the link in our bio so you don’t miss your chance to meet these wonderful folks in person!
Matt Thompson 🎤
Matt’s journey into design began in theater, where an early interest in stagecraft, storytelling, and aesthetics sparked a lasting passion for interiors. He later transitioned through retail and visual merchandising before studying interior design at Bellevue College. Matt began his professional career at NBBJ, contributing to healthcare, workplace, and retail/hospitality projects that shaped his understanding of how environments influence experience, culture, and performance.
Today, Matt serves as a Strategic Relationship Executive at MillerKnoll, where he partners with the design community to build relationships, support specification, and connect clients with innovative solutions. His role blends design expertise, business strategy, client engagement, and brand storytelling to help project teams navigate complex needs and create spaces that support people and organizations.
Matt has been deeply involved in the design community, including serving as President of the IIDA Northern Pacific Chapter during the 2024–2025 term. He is currently co-chairing the chapter’s upcoming 2027 Product Runway event, serves as a Site Visitor for the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ), and sits on the Advisory Council for the Bellevue College Interior Design Program. As one of the first Certified Design Futurists, Matt brings a forward-thinking perspective and is passionate about helping designers and clients navigate the evolving intersection of design, technology, and human experience.
Sarah Devine ⭐️
Sarah is the Managing Principal for Revel Architecture & Design’s Los Angeles office, where she leads the growth of the firm’s Southern California
